Head-to-Head Comparison

Loom vs ShareX

Which screen recorder is right for you? An honest, detailed comparison of features, pricing, and use cases.

Loom

Loom is a cloud-based async video messaging platform. Record your screen and webcam, share with an instant link, and get viewer analytics. Designed for workplace communication with AI features and integrations.

Free plan (25 videos, 5 min limit). Business $15/user/month.

ShareX

ShareX is a free, open-source screen capture and recording tool for Windows. It offers unlimited screenshots, video recording, GIFs, OCR, and supports dozens of upload destinations with customizable workflows.

Completely free and open-source. Windows only.

Feature Comparison

Side-by-side comparison of Loom and ShareX across key features.

Feature
Loom
ShareX
Platform
Web, Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
Windows only
Pricing
$15/user/month (free plan limited)
Free (open-source)
Screen Recording
Yes — cloud-based
Yes — local files
Screenshots
No
Yes — extensive capture modes
Cloud Sharing
Built-in instant links
Upload to 30+ services
Viewer Analytics
Yes — detailed
No
AI Features
Transcription, summaries
No
GIF Creation
No
Yes — native
Customization
Limited
Extremely customizable
Auto-Zoom
No
No

Pros & Cons

An honest look at the strengths and weaknesses of each tool.

Loom

Pros

  • Instant shareable links — no file management
  • Viewer analytics and engagement tracking
  • AI transcription and auto-generated summaries
  • Integrations with Slack, Notion, Gmail, Jira
  • Cross-platform — web, desktop, mobile

Cons

  • Subscription pricing per user
  • Free plan limited to 25 videos, 5 minutes
  • Very limited editing capabilities
  • Recordings stored on Loom's cloud only

Best for: Teams that want frictionless async video messaging with instant sharing, analytics, and workplace integrations.

ShareX

Pros

  • 100% free — no limitations or subscriptions
  • Unlimited screenshots, recordings, and GIFs
  • Dozens of upload destinations (Imgur, S3, FTP)
  • Highly customizable workflows and automation
  • OCR, color picker, and other utilities built in

Cons

  • Windows only — no macOS, Linux, or mobile
  • No viewer analytics or engagement tracking
  • Steep learning curve and complex interface
  • No AI features, transcription, or summaries

Best for: Power users on Windows who want unlimited free captures with full customization and don't need cloud analytics.

Pricing Comparison

LOOM

Free plan (25 videos, 5 min limit). Business $15/user/month.

SHAREX

Completely free and open-source. Windows only.

The Verdict

Choose Loom if you need async video communication with analytics, AI, and integrations and don't mind paying. Choose ShareX if you're on Windows, want a free tool with unlimited captures, and prefer local control over your files.

Consider Zumie as a Third Option

Zumie bridges the gap between Loom's polished experience and ShareX's affordability. At $39 one-time, it offers auto-zoom and click highlights that neither tool has, works on any OS via Chrome, and creates professional recordings without a subscription or complex configuration.

Auto-zoom & click highlightsWorks on any OS$39 one-time or free

Frequently Asked Questions

Can ShareX replace Loom?

ShareX can record your screen, but it lacks Loom's instant sharing links, viewer analytics, AI transcription, and team features. It's a very different tool designed for different use cases.

Is Loom worth paying for over free ShareX?

If you rely on async team communication, viewer analytics, and AI features, Loom is worth the subscription. If you just need to record and share captures, ShareX does that for free.

Can I use ShareX on Mac?

No, ShareX is Windows only. Mac users can use Loom, Zumie (Chrome extension on any OS), or other alternatives.

Do either have auto-zoom for recordings?

No. Neither Loom nor ShareX offers auto-zoom or click highlighting. Zumie is the only tool in this comparison that automatically creates polished zoom-to-click recordings.

Ready to Make Beautiful Recordings?

Skip the debate. Install Zumie for free and see the difference automatic zoom makes. No signup, no credit card, no commitment.

Free forever planNo account needed7-day money-back guarantee